what kind of impacts can lyrics make

        In class on Tuesday, we talked about sexualisation throughtout the years in rap music. However we also talked about the extremely empowering anthem “R.E.S.P.E.C.T.” by Aretha Franklin. One of most contradictory topics we discussed in class was the combination of rap artists sexualizing their songs while also trying to fight for their own civil rights. Although many of the degrading lyrics were probably used to relate to some of the audience, nowadays the powerful messages coming from many of the older rap songs is almost tainted because of their over use of sexualization. And personally, it almost does not make sense as to why rap artists would want to portray themselves in this way. Rapping like this can cause their lyrics to be misunderstood, as well as to give rappers a poor image.
        The Weissman reading lists some of the examples of sexulization in songs. These examples include things like demanding sex, women being treated as object, and appalling references to sexual acts. Sex was not the only thing that rap artists referenced in their music. They also referenced extreme violence as well rough partying. Weissman does make a point that rappers feel the need to keep up their tough exterior. Especially because they sell more if they are a more aggressive personality in their music. Although it is sad that this is true, Weissman does talk about how the more gangsta images for rapers make their music sell the best. Even though this is true, nowadays, a more positive image still gets you a long way. Not only that, staying positive and trying to get rid of the sexualizing parts of that culture, is also a better way for you to be heard. A rappers lyrics are more likely to have a bigger impact nowadays if they keep a positive image. For example, “1-800-273-8255” by Logic, had a really great impact in 2017. They used this song as a message and actually titled it after the suicide prevention hotline. The song was not only nominated for a grammy, but it also tripled the calls to the hotline after Logic performed it. Visit https://www.cnn.com/2018/02/03/us/logic-grammys-performance-suicide-prevention-calls-trnd/index.html  to see more of the great impact from Logic's song and powerful performance.
        Although this song does not talk about sexualizing women, it does show how great of an impact having a positive and uplifting image can have. Aretha Franklin definitely started this movement with her song “R.E.S.P.E.C.T.” I believe that this song not only started to change the content of her genre, but also the content of the songs that many rappers produced. Although the culture of sexualization in music is definitely not perfect now, its hopefully getting better. If rappers especially change they way they spread a message to make it more powerful, it will definitely reach a broader audience, and have a greater impact on society as a whole.

WORKS CITED
        Benson, Lindsay. “Logic's Grammys Performance Tripled Calls to a National Suicide Prevention Line.”  CNN, Cable News Network, 4 Feb. 2018, www.cnn.com/2018/02/03/us/logic-grammys-performance-suicide-prevention-calls-trnd/index.html.